2009 Dodge Ram 3500 Reviews

By Cars.com Editors

Vehicle OverviewThe Ram 2500 and 3500 pickups will follow their 1500 brother in getting a full makeover for the 2010 model year. For now, however, the Ram heavy-duty trucks are mostly carryovers from 2008.

The 2500 and 3500 trucks come on either a 140.5- or 160.5-inch wheelbase. The former handles the regular cab long-bed and Quad Cab short-bed, while the latter supports the Quad Cab long-bed and Mega Cab. All 2500 models come standard with the newly upgraded 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 gas engine. The popular 6.7-liter Cummins six-cylinder turbodiesel is optional in all 2500 models and standard in 3500 trucks. The 3500 Quad and Mega cabs can be ordered as single rear wheel or dual rear wheel. The 3500 regular cab comes only as a dual-rear-wheel model. Four trim levels are available: ST, SXT, SLT and Laramie. The regular cab isn't available in Laramie, and the Mega Cab isn't available in ST.

Dodge offers a special Power Wagon edition of the 2500 Quad Cab 4x4. By far the most aggressive offroad package offered in any full-size pickup, the Power Wagon comes with the 5.7-liter Hemi, electrically operated front and rear locking differentials, 33-inch offroad tires, a front disconnecting stabilizer bar and a winch. For those who want just a little offroad character, Dodge also offers the TRX4 Off-Road package on SXT models, which includes skid plates and offroad tires. Dodge also offers two snowplow packages that include selected skid plates, a heavy-duty battery and an anti-spin rear axle.

New for 2009With a new truck coming for 2010, Dodge trimmed down the Ram's heavy-duty lineup for 2009. The Power Wagon is available only in Quad Cab. The Hemi has been upgraded to 383 horsepower and 400 pounds-feet of torque for 2009, but that engine is no longer offered in 3500 models. The Hemi also loses the six-speed manual transmission; it now comes only with the five-speed automatic. Other changes include remote start available on diesel vehicles, limited-slip rear axle standard on 3500 models and larger front and rear brake rotors for all models.

ExteriorThis design has been around since 2003 and showcases the broad-shouldered look of the Ram's big-rig styling. The massive crosshair grille, creased hood, air dam and sculpted bumper increase the intimidation factor when viewed from the front.

Available power-sliding rear window on Quad Cab

Available sunroof on Mega Cab and Quad Cab

Available two-tone paint on SLT and Laramie

Chrome bumpers on most trims

InteriorThe Mega Cab is huge. Lift up the second-row seat and there's 71 cubic feet of storage space. When folded down, the rear seat can recline up to 37 degrees for passenger comfort. The Quad Cab isn't quite as roomy as competing crew cabs, but it can be ordered with numerous creature comforts. The white-face gauges are easy to read and the controls are conveniently placed. Laramie models are spiced up with wood trim and leather upholstery.

Dual-zone climate control available on Power Wagon, standard on Laramie

Available power-adjustable pedals

Available seven-speaker premium audio system

Available DVD-based navigation with 5.8-inch display on SLT, Laramie Power Wagon

Under the Hood

383-horsepower, 5.7-liter V-8 with iron block and aluminum cylinder heads, cam-in-block, two valves per cylinder and 400 pounds-feet of torque

350-hp, 6.7-liter inline-six-cylinder turbocharged diesel with an iron block and cylinder head, cam-in-block, four valves per cylinder and 650 pounds-feet of torque with the automatic, 610 pounds-feet with the manual

Six-speed manual (6.29:1 1st gear), standard 6.7-liter engine

Five-speed automatic, standard 5.7-liter engine

Six-speed automatic, available 6.7-liter engine

SafetyHeavy-duty trucks rarely get advanced safety features or additional airbag systems. The Ram 2500 and 3500 do offer an electronic stability system as an option on all models except the Power Wagon. A stability system is standard on Laramie models.

Warranties Explained

Bumper-to-Bumper

Often called a basic warranty or new-vehicle warranty, a bumper-to-bumper policy covers
components like air conditioning, audio systems, vehicle sensors, fuel systems and major electrical
components. Most policies exclude regular maintenance like fluid top offs and oil changes, but a few
brands have separate free-maintenance provisions, and those that do offer them is slowly rising.
Bumper-to-bumper warranties typically expire faster than powertrain warranties.

Powertrain

Don't be misled a 10-year or 100,000-mile powertrain warranty doesn't promise a decade
of free repairs for your car. It typically covers just the engine and transmission, along with any other
moving parts that lead to the wheels, like the driveshaft and constant velocity joints. Some automakers
also bundle seat belts and airbags into their powertrain warranties. With a few exceptions, powertrain
warranties don't cover regular maintenance like engine tuneups and tire rotations.

Roadside Assistance

Some automakers include roadside assistance with their bumper-to-bumper or powertrain
warranties, while others have separate policies. These programs cover anything from flat-tire changes
and locksmith services to jump-starts and towing. Few reimburse incidental costs like motel rooms (if
you have to wait for repairs).

Free Scheduled Maintenance

Some automakers include free scheduled maintenance for items such as oil changes, air
filters and tire rotations. Some include consumables including brake pads and windshield wipers; others
do not. They are typically for the first couple of years of ownership of a new car.

Get Email Alerts

Add your email and Cars.com will let you know when 2009 Dodge Ram 3500 are listed for sale near you

Email

ZIP Code

Thanks For Signing Up!

We have received your information, so keep an eye out for emails from Cars.com.